Every February, Americans celebrate Black History Month. This year, we invite you to join us in remembering the accomplishments of black citizens, past and present, which are an integral part of American history. Whether it’s the deeply-needed activism of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the cultural contributions of authors like Nora Zeale Hurston, or the unprecedented achievements of former President Barack Obama, America owes much to her black citizens. February brings an annual celebration of Black History, a time to celebrate achievements of African Americans and recognize the central role of blacks in U.S. history. Here are just a few African Americans who've made a profound impact in history: You’ve heard his dream, but what about his story? Read up on the extraordinary life of Martin Luther King, Jr., leader of the civil rights movement with an immense impact on Black history and rights. Perhaps the world’s most famous fugitive, Harriet Tubman risked her life to bring hundreds of slaves to freedom between 1850 and 1860. Click here for more on her journey to the Underground Railroad! Before her arrest on a city bus sparked a national movement towards integration, she was a seamstress at a local department store. Learn more about Rosa Parks, who she was and her life. His baseball career paved the way for thousands of Black athletes to break through barriers in sports. Learn more about how Jackie Robinson made his way to the Big Leagues! An acclaimed poet, her words on racial injustices echoed throughout the nation during a time when no one was listening. Keep reading for more on the life of Maya Angelou. Angela Davis has been fighting against oppression her entire adult life. Read to find out how she has remained resilient through it all and her role as an advocate for gender equity, prison reform and alliances across color lines. Did you know that Martin Luther King Jr. had an adviser that worked alongside him in his fight for Black rights? Bayard Rustin played an integral part in our nation’s notable civil rights movements. Faced with racism his entire life, Malcolm-X fought for a change in the system until his very last breath. What led Malcolm to a life of activism? Read his biography here to find out! This month, let the words of Thurgood Marshall remind us that when Americans “...recognize the humanity of our fellow beings, we pay ourselves the highest tribute.”1 To learn more about the origins of Black History Month, and this year’s theme! https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/black-history-month |
1. History.com, 2019 |
